Order picking is the process of pulling inventory in the warehouse to fill a customer order. "Given the centrality of the order fulfillment function, order picking and replenishment operations often represent more than 50% of total DC labor costs. As a result, if a shipper can speed-up its order picking operations it can increase volume and reduce distribution costs as a percent of sales" (Supply Chain Digest).

For optimal product flow and velocity through the warehouse, shippers can slot product based on variation in customer demand. For example, an "A class" product that is fast moving and stable should be placed near the front of the warehouse for quick and easy access. Whereas, a "D class" product that's slow moving and instable should be placed in back locations.

Voice picking is an effective tool for picking operations, where each operator is equipped with a mobile device or voice dedicated terminal and a headset with microphone. Benefits of voice picking include:

LeanCor Consulting is a division of LeanCor Supply Chain Group. Today’s complex supply chains require vision, strategies, and innovative techniques to create competitive performance. LeanCor Consulting is a trusted partner for advancing end to end supply chain performance through diagnostics, assessments, and full implementation. Global organizations leverage LeanCor Consulting to develop vision and strategy deployment plans for improvement in all supply chain functions. We focus on elements of speed, cost, quality, and delivery, and are able to develop innovative solutions from operational experience as a third party logistics partner.